Escarpment: meaning, definitions and examples
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escarpment
[ ɪˈskɑːrp.mənt ]
geography
A long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights.
Synonyms
bluff, cliff, cliff edge, precipice, ridge.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
escarpment |
Use when referring to a long, steep slope or cliff usually created by faulting or fracturing of the earth's crust. It often separates two relatively level areas of differing elevations.
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cliff |
Refers to a high, steep face of rock or earth, typically offering a dramatic drop-off. Suitable for both natural formations and man-made structures.
|
bluff |
This term is often used to describe a broad, rounded cliff, especially near rivers or coastlines. It generally has a more gradual slope compared to a cliff or precipice.
|
ridge |
Describes a long, narrow hilltop, mountain range, or watershed that is not necessarily steep. It can be used to describe both natural mountain ranges and smaller elevated areas.
|
precipice |
Typically used to describe an extremely steep or overhanging rock face, usually carrying a sense of danger or immediate drop. Often has a dramatic or dangerous connotation.
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cliff edge |
Specifically denotes the very edge of a cliff, often highlighting the danger or thrill of that position.
|
Examples of usage
- The hikers stopped to admire the breathtaking view from the top of the escarpment.
- The river below flowed rapidly along the base of the escarpment.
- The city was built on the edge of an ancient escarpment.
- The escarpment provided a natural barrier between the two regions.
- The army positioned themselves on the escarpment to have a strategic advantage.
Translations
Translations of the word "escarpment" in other languages:
🇵🇹 escarpa
🇮🇳 खड़ी चट्टान
🇩🇪 Steilküste
🇮🇩 tebing curam
🇺🇦 урвище
🇵🇱 skarpa
🇯🇵 崖
🇫🇷 escarpement
🇪🇸 escarpa
🇹🇷 uçurum
🇰🇷 절벽
🇸🇦 جرف
🇨🇿 útes
🇸🇰 útes
🇨🇳 悬崖
🇸🇮 strma pečina
🇮🇸 klettur
🇰🇿 жарқабақ
🇬🇪 ფერდობი
🇦🇿 sıldırım
🇲🇽 escarpa
Etymology
The word 'escarpment' originated from the French word 'escarpement', which came from the Italian 'scarpare' meaning 'to shoe'. In military terminology, an escarpment referred to the defensive slope of a fortified position. Over time, the term evolved to describe any steep slope or cliff, particularly in a geographical context.